▼17%
$118,097
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$82k
MEDIAN
$118k
90%
$141k
The average salary for a Principal Scientist is $118,097 in 2025
Base Salary
$82k - $141k
Bonus
$10k - $20k
Total Pay
$82k - $154k
Is Average Principal Scientist with Research Analysis Skills Salary in Minneapolis, Minnesota your job title? Find out what you should be paid
Use our tool to get a personalized report on your market worth.What's this?
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Scientists?
What Do Principal Scientists Do?
Principal Scientist Tasks
- Conduct quantitative and qualitative research to improve existing products or develop new ones.
- Coordinate with other departmental team leads to produce effective business solutions, and provide updates to project managers.
- Provide technical guidance on area of expertise and respond to internal and external queries.
- Monitor staff performance and conduct annual performance reviews.
- Lead a team of researchers, and coordinate work activity and training sessions.
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Scientist
Medical
100%
Dental
100%
Vision
89%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Scientists
Male
62.5%
Female
37.5%
This data is based on 8 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Principal Scientists
What is the highest pay for Principal Scientists in Minneapolis?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Scientist in Minneapolis is $141k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Scientists in Minneapolis?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Scientist in Minneapolis is $82k / year
How can Principal Scientists increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Principal Scientist is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Principal Scientist that oversees more junior Principal Scientists, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.